Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Benjamin Britten's "The Rescue of Penelope & Phaedra," a compelling classical album released on January 1, 1996, under Warner Classics International. This exquisite collection showcases Britten's mastery in blending opera, choral, and neoclassical elements, offering a rich and diverse musical experience.
The album is divided into two main works: "The Rescue of Penelope," a dramatic cantata that narrates the mythical tale of Odysseus' wife Penelope, and "Phaedra," an intense one-act opera based on the tragic figure from Greek mythology. Britten's compositional prowess shines through in both pieces, with intricate orchestration and profound emotional depth.
"The Rescue of Penelope" is presented in two parts, featuring a cast of divine characters including Athene, Hermes, Artemis, and Apollo. The narrative unfolds through a series of evocative arias and ensembles, each bringing a unique perspective to the timeless story. The choral elements add a powerful dimension, enhancing the overall dramatic impact.
"Phaedra," on the other hand, is a deeply moving exploration of love, obsession, and tragedy. The opera is structured into four distinct sections, each contributing to the unfolding drama. Britten's use of recitative and adagio creates a sense of urgency and introspection, drawing the audience into Phaedra's tumultuous world.
With a duration of 51 minutes, this album is a testament to Britten's ability to craft compelling narratives through music. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "The Rescue of Penelope & Phaedra" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Tracks
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 1: "Eight Years Have Passed" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 1: "Yet Not All Reached Their Homes" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Alison Hagley, Catherine Wyn-Rogers, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 1: "Worse Still, the Island" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 1: "Children Have Died of Want" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 1: "Yet Some Trust in an End" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 1: "Your Prayer Is Answered, Penelope" (Athene, Hermes)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Alison Hagley, Janet Baker, John Mark Ainsley, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 1: "Long Suffering Odysseus" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 1: "Listen, the Voices of the Gods" (Athene, Artemis, Hermis, Apollo)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Catherine Wyn-Rogers, Janet Baker, John Mark Ainsley, William Dazeley, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 2: "I, Athene, Rise to the Edge of Night" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 2: "When I See the Sorrow of Mortal Odysseus" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 2: "How Loud the Spring Sounds All of a Sudden" (Athene, Hermes)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Alison Hagley, Janet Baker, John Mark Ainsley, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 2: "Bold! Telemachus, Watch the Shadow on the Wall" (Hermes, Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, John Mark Ainsley, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 2: "There It Is Before You" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 2: "Listen, Lords of Ithaca" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 2: "Telemachus, Be Swift!" (Athene)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Alison Hagley, Janet Baker, Hallé
Britten: The Rescue of Penelope, Pt. 2: "Now There Is Silence" (Athene, Hermes, Artemis, Apollo)Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Alison Hagley, Catherine Wyn-Rogers, Janet Baker, John Mark Ainsley, William Dazeley, Hallé
Britten: Phaedra, Op. 93: I. Prologue. "In May, in Brilliant Athens"Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Lorraine Hunt, Hallé
Britten: Phaedra, Op. 93: II. Recitative. "My Lost and Dazzled Eyes"Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Lorraine Hunt, Hallé
Britten: Phaedra, Op. 93: III. Presto. "You Monster!"Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Lorraine Hunt, Hallé
Britten: Phaedra, Op. 93: IV. Recitative. "O Gods of Wrath"Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Lorraine Hunt, Hallé
Britten: Phaedra, Op. 93: IV. Adagio. "My Time's Too Short"Benjamin Britten, Kent Nagano, Lorraine Hunt, Hallé
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